Valve Replacement

Posted By Susan S. on June 16, 1998 at 20:17:45:







My husband, an internist, is going to  have surgery to repair or, if necessary,  replace his mitral valve.  In case he needs the valve replaced, I would appreciate information on various types of mechanical valves that may be available. Is there one most commonly used?  In addition, I would like to know whether  the selection of the  type of mechanical valve used is usually left to the surgeon?   FYI, we have decided against a tissue valve.   Thank you very much.  Susan S.